Homeowners in England and Wales can now benefit from a government-backed initiative to upgrade their home heating systems. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) offers grants to help cover the cost of replacing traditional fossil fuel-based heating systems—such as oil, gas, electric, or LPG—with low-carbon alternatives like air source heat pumps, ground source heat pumps, or biomass boilers.
This scheme supports the UK’s long-term plan to reduce carbon emissions and transition to more sustainable energy sources. If you’ve been thinking about switching to a cleaner heating solution, this could be the financial boost you need.
What Is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
Launched by the UK government, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme is designed to encourage homeowners to move away from fossil fuels and adopt renewable heating technologies. Eligible property owners can receive a grant of up to £7,500 to help offset the upfront installation costs.
The grant is paid directly to accredited installers, which means less hassle for homeowners. The installer will apply for the grant on your behalf and reduce the price of the work accordingly.
Who Can Apply?
This scheme is only available to residents in England and Wales. If you’re in Scotland, you may qualify for interest-free loans or alternative energy grants. Unfortunately, the Boiler Replacement Scheme in Northern Ireland has closed, but local energy-saving grants may still be available.
To qualify for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, applicants must meet the following basic criteria:
- Own a home or small non-domestic property in England or Wales
- Have an existing fossil fuel heating system (oil, gas, electric, or LPG)
- Install an eligible low-carbon system via an MCS-certified installer
- Ensure the property meets minimum insulation requirements
What Systems Are Eligible?
The following systems qualify for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme:
- Air source heat pumps
- Ground source heat pumps
- Biomass boilers (only for rural properties not connected to the gas grid)
These systems are more energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and can significantly reduce heating bills over time.
Why It Matters
The UK government is targeting net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, and domestic heating accounts for a significant share of CO₂ emissions. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme helps accelerate the shift to renewable heating sources, making it easier and more affordable for homeowners to contribute to climate goals.
How to Apply
You must contact a registered installer who is MCS-certified. They will:
- Check if your home qualifies.
- Apply for the grant on your behalf.
- Deduct the grant from your total installation cost.
You can search for certified installers through official government resources or the Ofgem website, which oversees the administration of the scheme.
Read Also:
£230 DWP Bonus for UK Pensioners: Who’s Eligible and When Is It Paid?
FAQs
Q1. How much grant money can I receive?
You can get up to £7,500, depending on the heating system you choose.
Q2. Can I apply directly?
No. Your MCS-certified installer will handle the application process for you.
Q3. Are new builds eligible?
Most new builds are not eligible, except self-built properties.
Q4. Can I get a grant for gas boiler replacement?
Only if you are replacing a fossil fuel system with a low-carbon one like a heat pump.
Q5. Is the scheme available across the UK?
It’s available only in England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland have separate energy schemes.
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